Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Fishing With Papa

Last weekend, I took a trip down to my hometown to visit my grandparents. It was more than just a visit though, we were on a mission. My husband and I have taken up fishing as a hobby, and my Papa has been an expert fisherman for most of his life so I thought he might be able to give us some tips. It turned out to be such a perfect, beautiful day and I could tell as it was happening that these good times with family would be something I will fondly remember for many years to come.

We packed up our gear into Papa's truck and drove down to the Deep Fork River, where we parked in a dusty lot situated next to an old cemetery.

Then we headed off down the trail to find a good spot on the river bank.

We let Papa lead the way because he's walked this trail many, many times.

He led us to a nice little spot with beautiful views of the river to the East...

...and to the West.

The muddy waters of the Deep Fork are the perfect habitat for catfish, so we got our poles ready for action.

My husband stayed with his pole the whole time.

I, on the other hand, propped mine up on a stick and began to wander around with my camera. I photographed the little rays of heaven shooting down through the trees...

...the sparkles they created on the streams...

...and my sweet teenage cousin, who is beautiful and creative and of whom I am so very proud (I was being sneaky and hiding in the grass so I could capture this rare creature in her natural habitat).

This little outing with my family was completely priceless. It warmed my heart beyond description when I saw my Papa passing his knowledge onto my husband, who will surely pass it on to our children someday as well. I can't wait to go fishing with Papa again!

I am the same way... sometimes my husband goes fishing by himself or with the guys, but sometimes I go with him... usually with camera in tow. I can't just 'sit' and fish for hours like men can... I'm much more of a wanderer. But I do love being there though, there is something special about spending the day with nature, for sure. ;)

Holly you look like a beautiful violet hiding amongst the green.I like to have picnics with my husband and daughter in our backyard. My husband brings out a ukulele and plays for us. He also brings out an old time crank record player and plays old 78 rpm records. We eat and listen to music, dance and play. :)

I like to watch my Dad try to do yoga by their new FABULOUS pool. My dad insists he knows how to do yoga, but all he really knows is Downward Dog. And then he just stretches a lot. And calls it "doing yoga."

Swoon. Love your papa, love his connection with you and your husband and the whole "fishing philosophy" thing. my dad is always so serious about his fishing rod too, but neither me nor my husband are experienced in fishing (city kids, pfft!) and yes, I do look forward doing some fishing as a family like you did.